Officials

Code of ethics

I hereby pledge to live up to my selection as a RCMFA Official by following the RCMFA Official’ Code of Ethics:

I will encourage good sportsmanship by demonstrating postive support of all players, coaches, fellow officials and league administrators at all times.

I will ensure that I am knowledgeable of the rules of each sport I officiate, and apply those rules fairly to all participants, teams and coaches.

I will not allow personal friendships and associations to influence my decisions during a contest.

I will refrain from the use of tobacco and alcohol products when in the youth sports environment.

I will remember that youth sports provide an opportunity for children to learn and have fun and I will place their safety above all else.

OFFICALS CORNER

1.  Keep your perspective.  Remember that it’s a game for the kids.  Help them have fun.

2.  Prepare for the unexpected.  Take time before each game to talk with your partner(s) about responsibilities.  Meet at least 15 minutes prior to the start of your game and go over the local ground rules and special concerns that might exist about the teams’ involved.

3.  Remember that you’re in charge.  When dealing with coaches or parents who can’t control themselves in front of other children, you do not have to take it as much as officials at other levels. There are ways to handle verbally abusive coaches, players and fans.

4.  Safety first.  You have a responsibility to ensure that all games are conducted in a safe environment.  Do not let a coach intimidate you into beginning a game when weather conditions or other problems exist. When in doubt, use common sense and err on the side of safety.

5.  Keep your focus.  In order to do a solid job, you must maintain concentration through thick and thin.

6.  Humble yourself.  No matter how good you think you are, you’re only as good as your last call.  Once your game is over, you should learn from it and take those lessons with you to the next game.